Diversity resource center entering final stages, hiring to begin soon

The next step for the implementation of a Diversity Resource Center (DRC) at MHCC is around the corner with the hiring of coordinator.

Associated Student Government (ASG) has long held a flame for the DRC, according to ASG President William Miller.

“Last year it was pushed even more and talked about even more,” said Miller, who last year helped lead a strong push to establish the center.

“It’s great to see the end result come to fruition in just the next few months,” he said. ASG hopes to see the DRC fully functional in the beginning of the Winter term, he said.

The next major step would be the new hire.

“I envision someone who is very open-minded, someone who is respectful, someone who understands, someone who has a background in multiculturalism or diversity of some sort, someone who really values students and the success of students and the college,” said Miller of his ideal coordinator candidate.

“I envision a well-rounded individual,” he said.

The hiring process is in the ASG’s court, with Miller and Vice President Antonio Guerrero giving input on the job description proposal and then handing it to the rest of the leadership team.  The proposal will then go to Human Resources (HR), where once any changes are made, it will be posted and the hiring process will begin.

Once there are applicants, potential coordinators will have to be approved through ASG as well as HR.

The remodeling of the Lake Room into the DRC will take place once a coordinator is hired, Miller said. The makeover will include new paint, new office furniture, computers, a TV and projector, as well as books and films relating to other cultures.

The DRC was approved by students in the Finance Council last February and was proposed by ASG. The intent is to help students from all walks of life learn about available opportunities, how to use different books and other learning resources to take advantage of various scholarships and to learn about other cultures.  Miller said it would be a safe space for all students regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion and such.

“It would be the best place on campus, other than the library, to go and gather info and resources, because we’re looking to have books and films and computers along with coordinator to help you,” Miller said. “It’ll be a great place to go.”

The DRC coordinator will take the lead in the effort and work with ASG through the group’s multicultural programs coordinator and director of diversity.

Miller said he expects the DRC teaming with the various cultural clubs and student on campus to produce events.

“I would imagine various different groups of students on campus and I would envision they work together to produce great work instead of flying solo,” he said. Faculty and staff also will have the option to attend cultural competency workshops through the DRC.